Women’s Political Representation in Indonesia: Who Wins and How?

This article analyses barriers to women’s political representation in Indonesia and the ways that women candidates overcome them. Surveying literature drawing on three data sources – findings of thirteen teams researchers studying running 2019 election, a survey 127 such candidates, nationally representative Indonesian citizens identifies widespread patriarchal attitudes as one significant barrier, alongside structural disadvantages. It highlights two distinctive methods by which aim these barriers: group target voters draw networks mobilise what has been called “homosocial capital”; another dynastic rely financial resources (often male) relatives. The briefly surveys place Islam both impeding facilitating representation. By surveying issues, introduces this special issue election.